You should note that plugging the Thunderbolt 3 cable into a regular USB-C port carrying device will only make it function like any other USB-C 3.1 cable.

You’ll also find it next to the USB-C ports of your MacBook. That’s the biggest differentiator between both the cables, and only the certified ones carry that symbol. So how do you figure out the difference and identify the correct cable? The Thunderbolt 3 supporting USB-C cables have the Lightning Bolt symbol on both the ports.

That said, the connector’s shape on the USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 supporting USB-C cables looks the same. However, you can use a USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 cable to get Thunderbolt 3 grade speeds or features. You can also note one merit of the Thunderbolt 3 cable – it can double up as a USB-C cable. Meanwhile, Intel’s proprietary Thunderbolt 3 port can carry data at 40Gbps speed when connected to a supporting hard drive or a dock. One thing to be noted here is that number is purely theoretical. So you experience those speeds if you connect a compatible SSD or another device with a USB 3.1 port. The USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port can deliver up to 10Gbps speeds. So if you’re planning to buy a monitor with USB-C or already have one, there are a bunch of things you need to keep in mind before picking the right cable and monitor. Of course, it’s recommended to use a single cable for a better quality connection and clutter-free desk. You aren’t the only one always wondering whether you’re buying the right cable for your MacBook for connecting it to an external monitor. So before you waste your money buying incompatible cables, read on.įirstly, all the MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Mini, and Mac Pro models released after 2016 carry a Thunderbolt 3 port. You need a specific USB-C cable to charge it or connect it to a premium Thunderbolt 3 monitor. Many folks often assume that any run-of-the-mill USB-C cable will work with their MacBook to charge it or connect it to the monitor. While it combiles power, data, and video into one, it is one of the most confusing standard for the users. The USB Type-C port is at the helm of nearly every new gadget, especially the Apple MacBook models.

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